New WSOP rule limits celebration in 2008

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The floor shows of the likes of Hevad Khan and Humberto Brenes most likely won’t be on display at the 2008 edition of the World Series of Poker. If they do, they might find themselves on the rail.

Harrah’s Entertainment released the 2008 edition of its rulebook, which included this entry, which is obviously aimed at stopping the ridiculous yet entertaining outbursts on the poker room floor during WSOP events:

“Excessive celebration through extended theatrics, inappropriate behavior, or physical actions, gestures, or conduct may be subject to penalty. Any player that engages a member of the tournament staff during the celebration or utilizes any property of Harrah’s will be penalized in accordance with Rules No. 31 and/or 51. Harrah’s property includes but is not limited to chairs, tournament tables, and stanchions.” ? Rule No. 36

Here are some other interesting rule changes, listed at cardplayer.com:

“Floor People: Floor People are to consider the best interest of the game and fairness as the top priority in the decision-making process. Unusual circumstances can on occasion dictate that decisions in the interest of fairness take priority over the technical rules. The floor person’s decision is final.” ? Rule No. 44

“A player who is disqualified shall have his or her chips removed from play and no refund will be provided to that disqualified player. Any player who forfeits play for health or other personal reasons after the start of a tournament will have his or her chips blinded off accordingly.” ? Rule No. 52

Nixed Rule:

Last year’s controversial rule that stated, “At the end of a hand, if a player exposes one hole card, he or she must also show the other hole card if asked to do so by any player,” has been removed. Players will now be allowed to show only one card, but only after the hand is over.

Cell Phones and Electronic Devices:

The cell-phone rule is further clarified in that they cannot be used unless the player is at least one table-length away from his assigned table. Players who use the phone at the table will have their hand killed or receive a missed-hand penalty if not involved in a hand. Players should also take note that electronic devices are prohibited that can access the Internet, send or receive SMS texts, or have communication devices. Blackberrys, iPhones, iTouch, and Treos will not be allowed at the table.

Whole thing here.

You can find a listing of all the rules for 2008 here.